<H1>Economic Recession Affects School Climate</H1>
<P>By Judy Brunner and Dennis Lewis
<P>During times of economic recession, schools may experience an increase in antisocial behavior by students. Stress can mount at home because of loss of employment or the rising cost of living, students may become unhappy, worried, or in some cases, clinically depressed. Additionally, some parents may experience similar symptoms and find it difficult to deal with day-to-day responsibilities related to family or work.
<P>In some communities, the effects are already evident from reports of suicides and violent acts that are attributed to the loss of jobs and housing foreclosures. Because schools are reflective of their communities, all staff members must be proactive in preparing and responding to a potential increase of erratic, aggressive, or harmful behavior that may be a response to the current economic situation.
<P>Individuals can show signs of depression in a variety of ways, but some of the more common warning signs may include:
<UL><LI>Persistent sadness and pessimism</LI>
<LI>Irritability and inability to participate or enjoy activities</LI>
<LI>Physical illness that does not respond to treatment</LI>
<LI>Unexplained decline in academic performance</LI>
<LI>Frequent absenteeism and truancy</LI>
<LI>Difficulty with concentration</LI>
<LI>Decrease in class participation</LI>
<LI>Changes in sleep patterns</LI>
<LI>Difficulty staying awake </LI>
<LI>Thoughts of suicide or self-harm</LI>
<LI>Noticeable weight loss or gain.</LI></UL>
<P>While at school, some students may display antisocial behavior, such as disrespect for authority, insubordination, or defiance, which may lead to an increase in disciplinary referrals to the office. Additionally, student fights or assaults may occur more frequently. 
<P><B>Helping Students</B>
<UL><LI>Be observant when working with students. Some behavioral changes may be subtle but still warrant adult intervention. Educators should try to provide early assistance for students and families who may be in crisis. </LI>
<LI>Consider that a students disruptive behavior may be a result of family stress due to financial concerns. While it is important that students follow the student code of conduct, understanding some of the underlying causes of the behavior will help counselors, teachers, and administrators develop a plan for appropriate intervention. </LI>
<LI>Some students who normally use prescription medication to manage impulsivity, attention, or other behavioral concerns may find it difficult to afford medication. Work with the school nurse to explore the possibility some students may not be receiving appropriate medication because they can no longer afford it. </LI>
<LI>Teachers should update school counselors and administrators on behavioral changes in students. Although a personal conversation may be best, school personnel can also communicate by e-mail. E-mail has the added benefit of providing written documentation of the issues as well as a record of intervention strategies used. </LI>
<LI>Counselors and administrators should keep teachers informed about behavioral changes and student needs. Communication between educators is critically important at this time.</LI></UL>
<P><B>Helping Families</B>
<UL><LI>Be sensitive to students who may have difficulty paying for anything extra. Many families are reluctant to share information related to financial difficulties. When school budgets are tight, educators may be tempted to pass along the cost of a field trip or school supplies to the student. Remember, if the school budget is tight, family budgets may be too. </LI>
<LI>Recognize that some families may be experiencing situational poverty due to loss of employment and may be encountering poverty for the first time. These families may not know how to access the resources that are available to help with financial difficulties. </LI>
<LI>If the school or district is fortunate to have a social worker on staff, that is ideal. However, most districts do not, so the school counselor and administrator should work with social service agencies to acquire and share information about financial assistance with families. </LI>
<LI>Remember, parents may also be under stress, so their patience or ability to support the school may be more limited. All school personnel should be polite and understanding, even if a parent arrives at school in a state of agitation. </LI></UL>
<P><B>Helping Other Educators</B>
<UL><LI>Keep in mind that some staff members may be experiencing their own financial difficulties. Encourage staff members to be supportive of one another. </LI>
<LI>Utilize existing student support groups or establish new ones through the counseling department. Just being able to share concerns in a confidential and protected environment may be enough help for some students. </LI>
<LI>Discuss at faculty meetings some of the reasons for changing student behavior. Brainstorm with colleagues what strategies might help struggling students manage the stress associated with economic difficulties. </LI></UL>
<P><B>Protecting Personal and School Property</B>
<P>Property crime rates may increase in times of economic downturn as some people turn to illegal acts to survive. Consider the following preventative measures:
<UL><LI>Check freezers and dry food storage locations in the kitchen area to ensure that doors are routinely locked when the staff is not present. </LI>
<LI>Review with staff members the procedures for handling and securing cash in the school. Be vigilant at events where cash is collected. </LI>
<LI>Have the custodial or maintenance staff conduct facility reviews to check for lighting issues and for doors and locks that might need repair. </LI>
<LI>Remind staff members to review classroom security procedures, including keeping small, easily concealed, and valuable items out of view or in a secure area when not in use. </LI></UL>
<P><B>Conclusion</B>
<P>Educators are uniquely qualified to help students, staff members, and parents understand and work through our current economic crisis. Although a troubled economy can negatively impact families and communities, it doesnt have to result in chaos at school. The most important best practice for school safety and security is a caring staff that connects daily with students and parents and provides them with individual attention. 
